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IPL 2026: Sanjeev Goenka-Rishabh Pant hug sparks 'fake smile' debate after LSG’s loss
TL;DR
Lucknow Super Giants owner Sanjiv Goenka was seen hugging captain Rishabh Pant after their 40-run loss to Rajasthan Royals, sparking debate about their expressions. The match ended with LSG bowled out for 119 runs while chasing 160.
Key points
- Lucknow Super Giants lost to Rajasthan Royals by 40 runs
- Sanjiv Goenka hugged Rishabh Pant after the match
- Goenka's warm demeanor contrasted with previous serious interactions
- LSG bowled out for 119 while chasing 160
- Mitchell Marsh was the only notable scorer for LSG with 55 runs
Mentioned in this story
Lucknow Super GiantsRajasthan RoyalsSanjiv GoenkaRishabh Pant
IPL 2026
Lucknow Super Giants owner Sanjiv Goenka was once again seen interacting with captain Rishabh Pant on the field following their heavy 40-run loss to Rajasthan Royals at the Ekana Stadium on Wednesday. The hug sparked widespread speculation on social media, with fans sharing mixed reactions.
However, this time the mood appeared noticeably different. Unlike his earlier post-match interactions with LSG captains, often marked by a serious and intense demeanor that has drawn attention, Goenka was seen smiling warmly during the conversation with Pant. The change in expression stood out, especially after what was an embarrassing defeat for the franchise.
Rajasthan Royals produced a clinical all-round performance to beat Lucknow Super Giants by 40 runs, successfully defending 159 after bundling LSG out for just 119 in 18 overs. The chase never gained momentum, with skipper Rishabh Pant’s early dismissal triggering a collapse, as only Mitchell Marsh showed resistance with a fighting 55.
Earlier, LSG’s bowlers impressed, with Mohammed Shami striking twice in quick succession, while Mohsin Khan and Prince Yadav kept things tight to restrict RR to 159/6. However, their efforts went in vain due to poor shot selection and a fragile middle order during the chase.
For RR, Ravindra Jadeja played a crucial all-round role, scoring an unbeaten 43 to steady the innings and later picking up a key wicket. He was well supported by Jofra Archer and Nandre Burger with the ball, as RR’s bowlers dominated to seal a comprehensive win and climb to second on the points table.
After the match, LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka was seen sharing a hug with skipper Rishabh Pant. Despite the defeat, Goenka had a smile on his face, reflecting a calmer and more composed approach.
However, social media users interpreted the moment differently, suggesting that his restrained reaction might stem from past controversies, with many claiming he was holding back his true emotions.
Q&A
What happened in the IPL match between Lucknow Super Giants and Rajasthan Royals?
Lucknow Super Giants lost to Rajasthan Royals by 40 runs, getting bowled out for 119 while chasing a target of 160.
Why did Sanjiv Goenka's hug with Rishabh Pant attract attention?
The hug sparked speculation on social media due to the contrasting warm demeanor of Goenka after a heavy defeat, differing from previous serious interactions.
What were the key performances in the match between LSG and RR?
Rajasthan Royals set a target of 160, with LSG's bowlers performing well initially, but a collapse in batting led to their defeat, with Mitchell Marsh scoring 55.
